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Jude Bellingham faces the possibility of a ban after UEFA launched an investigation for his gesture following a late equaliser for England against Slova kia in the round of 16 clash at the Euro 2024. The governing body of European football is looking into a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct after Jude Bellingham grabbed his crotch in a gesture towards the opposition team while celebrating his bicycle goal.
In the round of 16 clash against Slovakia, which was played at the Arena Auf Schalke in Gelsenkirchen, England were far from their best in the first half. The Slovaks scored the opening goal in the 25th minute through a counter-attacking goal from Ivan Schranz to take the lead.
After Declan Rice hit the post from range in the second half, it seemed certain that England would be bowing out of the UEFA Euro 2024 until Jude Bellingham scored an epic bicycle kick in the 90+5’ minute, to give his team a lifeline. The first minute of extra time saw Harry Kane score a header to give England a 2-1 lead, enough for them to qualify for the quarter-final where they will be facing Switzerland.
Jude Bellingham spoke about his crotch-grabbing gesture in the aftermath of the win and said, “An inside-joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
As per the report from the BBC, article 11 2b requires anyone subject to the UEFA regulations to respect the “principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship,” and if anyone is "insulting or otherwise violates the basic rules of decent conduct,” then they could be in breach.
If the UEFA finds Jude Bellingham guilty, then he could face a suspension, a fine or both.
